Queensland player ratings for Origin III

Queensland player ratings for the third State of Origin game against NSW at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane.

Fullback:

Greg Inglis: Filled Billy Slater’s boots magnificently. Made 99 metres with ball in first half to put Qld on front foot. Unlucky not to score crucial second-half try Rating: 8.

Winger:

Darius Boyd: Grabbed his third try of the series, confirming his reputation as a classy finisher. Couldn’t be blamed for Josh Morris’ amazing late try. Rating: 7.

Centre:

Dane Nielsen: Did the job he was selected to do with a strong defensive display in the centres. Rating 7.

Centre:

Justin Hodges: Great game defensively and scored a crucial try late in the first half that kicked NSW mentally. Rating:7.5

Winger:

Brent Tate: Had his angry pills and did as much fighting as running but didn’t neglect his role. Strong and completed a great comeback series. Rating: 7.

Five-eighth:

Johnathan Thurston: Magnificent first half featuring 80-metre try after handling three times. Running game was superb again. Rating: 8.

Halfback:

Cooper Cronk: Very productive 80 minutes feeding Thurston and Inglis and constantly probing in the ruck for holes. Kicked the series-winning field goal from 40m in the 75th min. Rating: 7.5

Front-row:

Matt Scott: Battled his emotions, playing a week after attending his mother Dianne’s funeral. Played his heart out, made the tough metres up the middle. Rating 7.

Hooker:

Cameron Smith: Made 40 tackles and directed his troops superbly as he has all series. Rating: 7.

Front-row:

Petero Civoniceva: The big prop received his fairytale farewell as Darren Lockyer did in the same game 12 months ago. His second-half spell was inspiring. Rating 7.5

Second-row

Nate Myles: Superb in every aspect defensively and taking the dirty hit-ups and getting belted. Capped off an outstanding series with an inspirational effort. Rating: 8.5.

Second-row:

Sam Thaiday: Made a big difference on the right edge and played with his usual passion and vigour. Rating 7.

Lock:

Corey Parker: Magnificent defensive effort but it was also his offloads that caught the eye, including one that led to Boyd’s try. Rating: 7.

Interchange:

Matt Gillett: Ran on late and, with appearances in all three games, will be better for the experience next year. Rating 6.

Ben Te’o: Handled his debut well when given his opportunity. Rating: 6.5.

Ben Hannant: Great contribution as usual from the bench with 65 metres and 23 tackles. 7

Dave Shillington: Wonderful effort with 126 metres and 18 tackles starting off the interchange bench. Rating: 7.